Vajrasati Yoga aims to implicitly and explicitly explore the yoga teachings of Patanajali, the Buddha, Non-Dual Saiva Tantra and other great Indian teachers/teachings in a non-abstract experiential way, most commonly this is done in the school through bodywork recognisable to anyone who has come across a Modern Postural Yoga class (most studio classes come under this category).

The ultimate goal of practice is leading each student towards ‘moksha’ a Sanskrit word meaning liberation or freedom which is a realisation of ones fundamentally interconnected state.

The school seeks to achieve these ends through encouraging students to practice whilst exploring yogic principles such as set out in the Yamas and Niyamas of Patañjali’s sūtras. In particular; non-violence (ahimsa), honesty (satya), investigation (svadyaya) and a sense of trust in a Knowing (Sanskrit – Prajñā). This Knowing is not stored or learned but more ‘plugged into’ (ishvara pranidhana).

Astanga Yoga

Astanga (‘Ash-tanga’) Vinyasa Yoga is the original Dynamic (movement based) form of yoga. It’s focus is on bringing both strength and flexibility to the body by synchronising a person’s movement with their breathing.

Many variants (e.g.: Vinyasa Flow, Power Yoga, Jivamukti) have evolved from Astanga however there is something very special about the traditional method and sequences meaning it continues to be one of the most popular forms of yoga globally.

The word Astanga literally means Eight Limbs which represent the 8 yogic elements of yoga as set out in classic yoga texts. The practice aims to harmonise Asana (physical postures) with Pranayama (Breath Control) and Dristhi (Focus) to create a more rounded yoga practice of both the body and the mind.

Iyengar Yoga

The focus on Iyengar yoga is on alignment and extension, creating strength, flexibility and evenness in the body connecting the body with the breath and the mind , creating evenness and stability in the mind.

Iyengar yoga is a rounded and balanced practice. It is a holistic approach and practice for your whole life. There is a strong emphasis on teaching in Iyengar yoga. It is culture of teaching and learning. The student can begin to start their own practice with the knowledge they gain in class. We also focus a lot on inversions ( going upside down ) as these asana’s have enormous health benefits and are also seen as the gateway to meditation.

Each week the class will be different, moving from standings (including balancing) forwards bends, back bends, twists, restorative and pranayama. We also practice Surya namaskar and jumping when the students become more experienced. As a student you move towards staying for longer periods in the asanas, to explore them in depth. This leads to meditation in action, by placing the mind in the body everyday thoughts cease.